Exploring CNC Options

Exploring CNC
Options

One of the latest tools to enter the hobbyist
woodworking market is the CNC – a machine featuring Computer Numerical Control
(CNC). While there have been some interesting conversations on this subject
from traditional woodworkers, the versatility of a CNC and what it can produce
is quite impressive and impossible to ignore. Originally used for production
cutting and duplicating parts, CNCs now have simplified the designing process
and have opened up an entire new world for any woodworker. Lettering,
engraving, carving, and even three-dimensional cutting are now commonplace, and
turning out a professional looking project is easier than ever before.

Things to
consider when buying a CNC

All CNCs require design software to create the files
into “G-Code”, which is what the machine uses to decipher the movements needed.
We recommend you buy an all-inclusive package; that way everything is
compatible and designed to work together.

Other things to consider:

What things do you plan on making

Are you using it for production
or occasional use

How much room do you have

And finally, how much can you
afford to spend

Smaller Machines

While many of these are truly full-fledged CNC machines, they can be a little
limiting and can require creativity if you begin to do larger work. Traditionally,
these machines utilize smaller palm routers with a rating of 1-1/4 HP.

CNC Piranha FX Benefits:

Lower
price – allows you to get into the CNC world and test the water to see if you
like it

Small
footprint – can fit under or on a counter and are virtually portable

High
quality – while less in price, the results are every bit as good as a full-size
machine

Learning
curve is transferrable – in other words they work the same as larger machines, so
if you decide to go big you are not starting over

Midsize
Machines

CNC machines in this category open up
the possibilities to large-scale projects. A midsize CNC will accept larger
routers, typically rated at 2-1/4 HP. These machines will also typically accept
aftermarket water-cooled spindle assemblies, which run cooler than a
traditional router motor so they can run longer, thereby increasing the
production capability.